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‘The Lonesome West’ takes the stage at Clarion

February 18, 2016

 

lonesome west
The constantly bickering Connor brothers in "The Lonesome West," here fighting over a pair of shotgun shells, are played by Sam Atwell (left) and Logan Honsaker (right).

Clarion’s department of visual and performing arts will perform “The Lonesome West” at 8 p.m. Feb. 24-27 and at 2 p.m. Feb. 28 in Marwick-Boyd Little Theatre. Tickets are $12 for the community and free for Clarion students with ID. To reserve tickets call 814-393-2787.

"The Lonesome West" is a dark comedy set in Galway County, a largely unpopulated place on Ireland's west coast, in the 1990s. It follows the story of two brothers, Coleman and Valentine Connor, who live alone in their farmhouse following their father's death. Each is prone to violent tantrums over mundane, insignificant events. Other characters include a disillusioned priest whose mission is the Connors' salvation, and Girleen, a 17-year-old girl responsible for keeping the brothers stocked with her father's moonshine.

"The author, Martin McDonagh, is a genius with that vicious, ironic brand of Irish humor," said Robert Bullington, assistant theatre professor and director of the production.

Production of "The Lonesome West" has been planned for several years. When choosing a play for performance, the department thinks on a four-year cycle. This is so freshmen entering the theatre program will experience many types of plays during their college career.

"I've always loved Irish theater," Bullington said, "And it's been a while since I did one. I also enjoy teaching the students the dialect."

This performance is largely student-driven. Four students are cast as main characters: Sam Atwell, St. Marys; Logan Honsaker, Twinsburg, Ohio; Thea Perkins, Greenville; and Gabrielle Kashner, Columbia, Pa. Perkins is using "The Lonesome West" as a graduation project.

Properties and sound are designed by students Thomas Feather, Windber, and Cierra Southerton, Honesdale, respectively. Scenic/lighting and costume designers are Ed Powers, associate theatre professor, and Myra Bullington, a theatre instructor.

While students are highly involved with this show, it is not for all ages.

"This one isn't for kids. There's some violence, language and some mature content. It's also not for those who cling to political correctness. McDonagh takes shots are everything ... nothing is sacred," Bullington said.

"It's the middle of winter, and the play is really funny. And sad. And kind of moving. And thought provoking," Bullington said. "I love to see the students put down their phones and experience live theater. Maybe even for the first time."

Last Updated 1/11/21